A thrilling cultural performance from Te Pito Whenua in the wharenui (meeting house) at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds in the Bay of Islands. Credit: Northland Inc Tourism

Waitangi Day commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on 6th February 1840 between the British Crown and the Maori people. As a result of the signing of the Treaty, New Zealand became a British colony and the Maoris became British subjects. The Treaty was signed by over 500 Maori chiefs but was written in English. However the translated versions differed significantly which meant that there was no consensus as to exactly was agreed. Waitangi Day is now commemorated as New Zealand’s National Day. Ever since Jill McIvor opened the House, the Waitangi Lunch has been one of our principal events.